Seashell Trust guests had a wonderful time at its Alice in Wonderland-inspired spring ball.

The 250 partygoers at the Hilton Manchester Deansgate raised £54,000 to support the children and young adults with complex learning disabilities and additional communication needs that attend the trust’s school and college.

The charity’s national centre of excellence is based in Cheadle Hulme, but helps children and families from across the UK.

Jo Barber, fundraiser at Seashell, said: “On behalf of everyone at Seashell Trust, I’d like to thank everyone who joined us at the ball for a fabulous evening of fundraising for a great cause, and we look forward to welcoming everyone again next year.”

The Mad Hatter-styled evening started with drinks reception on the mezzanine, followed by a sumptuous four-course dinner served in the Deansgate Suite.

Jane Raca, whose son James is a student at Seashell Trust, talked movingly to the audience about the difference the charity has made not only to him, but to their family’s life also.

If you would like to add to the total, you can donate here.